Frito Pie Empanadas: A Southwestern Twist on a Classic Dish

If you’re a fan of bold flavors and crave comfort food with a twist, then Frito Pie Empanadas are something you need to try! These delicious, crispy pastries are filled with a savory mixture of chili, cheese, and the iconic crunch of Frito chips. They take the classic Southwestern Frito pie and wrap it into a convenient, bite-sized empanada that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a weeknight dinner, or simply craving something new, Frito Pie Empanadas are a fantastic choice. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about these tasty treats!

What Are Frito Pie Empanadas?

At first glance, Frito Pie Empanadas might sound like an odd combination, but it’s a delicious fusion of two popular dishes: Frito pie and empanadas. Frito pie, a beloved Southwestern dish, is typically made with Fritos corn chips, chili, and cheese. By taking the same concept and encasing it in a crispy empanada dough, you get a delightful handheld meal that’s full of flavor and texture.

The empanada shell adds a flaky, golden-brown contrast to the rich, cheesy chili filling. The addition of Fritos provides a crunchy element that’s unexpected yet irresistible. Whether you’re baking them in the oven or frying them for that extra crispy texture, Frito Pie Empanadas offer a fun and flavorful twist on a traditional favorite.

The History Behind Frito Pie

Before we dive into making these tasty empanadas, it’s worth knowing a little bit about the history of the dish that inspired them: Frito pie. The origins of Frito pie are somewhat murky, but it is generally accepted that it was created in the southwestern United States, particularly in Texas and New Mexico. The dish is believed to have been invented in the 1930s, using Fritos corn chips as the base.

Originally, Frito pie was served as a simple, hearty meal consisting of chili and Fritos, often eaten directly from the bag, making it a convenient and portable snack for outdoor events or road trips. The dish quickly gained popularity, especially at state fairs, carnivals, and sporting events. Over the years, various regional variations of Frito pie have emerged, including the addition of toppings like sour cream, onions, and jalapenos.

By combining this iconic Southwestern dish with the classic Latin American empanada, Frito Pie Empanadas represent the best of both culinary worlds—comfort food and bold, international flavors.

What Makes Frito Pie Empanadas Unique?

What sets Frito Pie Empanadas apart from other empanada recipes is the unique filling. Unlike traditional empanadas, which are typically filled with savory meats or vegetables, these empanadas are filled with a hearty chili mixture that combines the rich flavors of ground beef (or your choice of protein), chili powder, melted cheese, and of course, crunchy Fritos.

This fusion of ingredients creates a dish that is not only delicious but also highly customizable. You can adjust the spice level by varying the amount of chili powder or add extra ingredients to make it your own. The crispy empanada dough, when baked or fried to perfection, contrasts beautifully with the warm, cheesy chili filling, making each bite a delightful explosion of flavors and textures.

Essential Ingredients for a Perfect Empanada Filling

Before you start cooking, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make these amazing Frito Pie Empanadas. Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Frito corn chips	1 ½ cups	Crushed for texture
Ground beef or turkey	1 pound	Can substitute with beans for a vegetarian option
Chili powder	1 tablespoon	Adds spice and depth of flavor
Onion	½ cup	Diced finely for even distribution in the filling
Cheddar cheese	1 cup	Shredded for melting and flavor
Empanada dough	1 package	Pre-made or homemade dough
Refried beans (optional)	½ cup	Adds creaminess and richness to the filling
Sour cream (optional)	¼ cup	For garnish and extra flavor

How to Make Frito Pie Empanadas: Step-by-Step

Making Frito Pie Empanadas is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. The process is broken down into three main stages: preparing the filling, assembling the empanadas, and cooking them.

Step 1: Preparing the Filling

The first step is to prepare the filling for the empanadas. Here’s how to do it:

1. Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. If you’re using beans instead of meat, skip this step and go directly to step 2.
2. Add the Onion: Once the meat is browned, add the diced onion to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent.
3. Add the Seasoning: Stir in the chili powder and any other spices you like (cumin, paprika, or garlic powder work well here). Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes so the spices can release their flavors.
4. Mix in the Fritos: Next, crush the Frito corn chips and add them to the skillet, stirring to incorporate them into the mixture. The chips will absorb some of the liquid and add crunch to the filling. If you’re using refried beans, add them now for added creaminess.
5. Stir in the Cheese: Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. The heat from the filling will melt the cheese, creating a gooey, cheesy base for your empanadas.

Step 2: Assembling the Empanadas

Now that the filling is ready, it’s time to assemble the Frito Pie Empanadas:

1. Roll Out the Dough: If you’re using pre-made empanada dough, roll out each disc of dough on a lightly floured surface. If you’re making homemade dough, roll it out to about ¼ inch thickness.
2. Add the Filling: Place a heaping tablespoon of the Frito pie filling in the center of each dough disc. Be sure not to overfill, as this could cause the empanada to burst during cooking.
3. Seal the Empanada: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together with your fingers to seal the empanada. For extra security, use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring the filling stays inside.

Step 3: Baking or Frying the Empanadas

Now, it’s time to cook the empanadas. You have two options: baking or frying.

Baking:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the assembled empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Lightly brush the tops with olive oil or melted butter to help them turn golden brown.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are crispy and golden. Be sure to check halfway through to ensure they’re not browning too quickly.

Frying:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer over medium heat.
2. Fry the empanadas in batches, cooking each for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
3. Remove the empanadas from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serving Your Frito Pie Empanadas

Once the empanadas are cooked, it’s time to serve them up! Frito Pie Empanadas are best enjoyed hot and fresh. Here are a few ideas for garnishing and serving:

• Toppings: A dollop of sour cream adds a cool, creamy contrast to the spicy filling. For an extra kick, garnish with diced jalapenos or fresh cilantro.
• Side Dishes: Pair your empanadas with a fresh salad, guacamole, or even a side of Spanish rice for a complete meal.
• Dipping Sauces: Serve the empanadas with additional chili, salsa, or a homemade queso dip for extra flavor.

Delicious Variations of Frito Pie Empanadas

While the classic Frito Pie Empanada is packed with ground beef, chili, and cheese, there are many ways to make it your own. Here are some variations:

1. Vegetarian Frito Pie Empanadas: Skip the meat and use black beans, pinto beans, or roasted vegetables (like bell peppers, corn, and zucchini) for a hearty, plant-based filling.
2. Different Cheeses: Try using Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile. Adding some cream cheese to the filling will give it a rich, creamy texture.
3. Protein Variations: Swap the ground beef for chicken, turkey, or pork. You can even use shrimp for a unique seafood twist!

Why You’ll Love Frito Pie Empanadas

Here’s why Frito Pie Empanadas are a must-try:

• Crunchy and Cheesy: The crispy, golden shell contrasts perfectly with the cheesy, flavorful filling.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level, protein, and toppings to suit your preferences.
• Convenient: They’re handheld, making them perfect for parties, game days, or family gatherings.
• Quick and Easy: The recipe comes together quickly, especially if you use pre-made empanada dough.

Tips for Making the Perfect Frito Pie Empanadas

Making the perfect Frito Pie Empanadas requires a little care and attention. Here are some tips for success:

1. Sealing the Dough: Ensure the edges of the dough are properly sealed to avoid any leaking of the filling while cooking.
2. Don’t Overfill: Overfilling the empanadas can cause them to burst open during cooking, so be sure to use just enough filling.
3. Golden Brown: If baking, be sure to brush the empanadas with oil or butter to ensure they turn a beautiful golden brown. If frying, keep the oil at a consistent temperature to avoid greasy empanadas.

Pairing Drinks with Frito Pie Empanadas

Pair your Frito Pie Empanadas with a refreshing beverage that complements the bold flavors. Here are a few drink suggestions:

• Cold Beer: A crisp lager or pale ale pairs wonderfully with the spicy chili and cheesy filling.
• Margaritas: The tangy citrus of a margarita balances out the richness of the empanadas.
• Iced Tea or Limeade: For a non-alcoholic option, try a cold iced tea or homemade limeade for a refreshing accompaniment.

Frito Pie Empanadas for Any Occasion

Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a special occasion, Frito Pie Empanadas are perfect for any event. They are great for:

• Game Days: Serve them as a fun snack for your next game day gathering.
• Parties: These bite-sized empanadas are ideal for appetizers at your next party.
• Weeknight Dinners: Whip them up for a quick, satisfying dinner that the whole family will enjoy.

Conclusion

Frito Pie Empanadas combine the best of both worlds: the comfort of Frito pie and the crispy delight of empanadas. They are quick to make, customizable, and always a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re cooking them for a crowd or making a batch for yourself, these empanadas will become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

FAQs About Frito Pie Empanadas

1. Can I make Frito Pie Empanadas ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the empanadas ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking or frying them.
2. What can I substitute for Fritos in this recipe? You can use other types of corn chips or even crushed tortilla chips for a similar crunch.
3. Are Frito Pie Empanadas gluten-free? Yes, if you use gluten-free empanada dough or tortillas, these empanadas can easily be made gluten-free.
4. Can I freeze Frito Pie Empanadas? Absolutely! You can freeze them before baking or frying. Just make sure to freeze them in a single layer, and once they’re frozen solid, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
5. Can I add vegetables to the filling? Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, corn, or any other vegetables you like to the filling for extra flavor and texture.